It has become a tradition around here, that Kilkenny welcome American and Canadian marching bands to the city throughout St. Patrick’s week. Spread across the week there are a mixture of static performances in Kilkenny Castle Park and performances through the streets of Kilkenny. It is a fantastic spectacle and a great way to see an American Marching Band up close with a special performance in our medieval city. This year Kilkenny are delighted to host 4 American Marching Bands and 1 Canadian Marching Band across the week. With our own local marching bands performing in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, of course!
In 2022 Kilkenny hosted one of American’s largest marching bands the Marching Illini. Drawing a crowd to both the castle and the streets, the band provided huge entertainment from school children to those peeking out of their office windows. This year’s performances includes the return of Purdue, whom people might remember visited Kilkenny in 2013.
On Tuesday the 14th of March the Burlington Teen Tour Band will perform in Kilkenny Castle Park at 11am. Burlington are one of Canada’s oldest and largest youth marching bands. One of the top marching bands in Canada. This will be their third visit to Ireland.
On the afternoon of Wednesday the 15th March there will be a double treat beginning at 3.30pm with Purdue back marching through Kilkenny’s streets and Mountain West Conference All-Star band performing at Kilkenny Castle. Purdue have a 400 strong band who will march through the streets of Kilkenny and will be accompanied by over 200 family and supporters. This is a sight not to be missed.
Then on Saturday there is another double bill with the Marist HS Marching Band from Chicago and Bishop More Highschool Florida marching through the streets and performing at the Castle beginningat 12.30pm.
The bands are a sight not to be missed and a unique chance to see American & Canadian Marching bands up close with performances specially for the people of Kilkenny. Spectators are welcomed to the Castle Park and to line the streets to support our visitors. It is a great way to get in the festival spirit!
Click the band name to find out more about the band and their performance
